Solutions for Common Denture Problems Downey, CA
Dentures are more comfortable and helpful than ever before. However, there are still some common problems that many denture wearers experience. Proper denture care and diet can help keep the gums and mouth healthy and avoid irritation or infections.
Dentures are available at Amir Sanjabi Dental in Downey and the surrounding area. Our team can provide you with solutions and tips to correct common denture problems. Call us at (562) 399-9243 to learn more about our services or schedule an appointment.
What to Expect With Dentures
Getting dentures for the first time will result in large lifestyle changes. Denture wearers should expect diet changes and discomfort at first. These appliances are not as efficient at chewing as natural teeth and can cover the palate, which plays an important role in sensing flavors. This causes many denture wearers to gravitate towards more processed foods that are also naturally higher in fat, salt, and sugar. We recommend denture wearers eat a diet rich in protein, carbohydrates, and healthy fats.
When wearing dentures for the first time, it is normal to experience some soreness and discomfort. The University of Iowa's College of Dentistry and Dental Clinics states that it is not unusual for dentures to be relined or remade within six to eight weeks after tooth extraction. This will occur as the mouth muscles adjust and get used to the appliance. As people get used to their dentures, pain and discomfort will disappear, and they can resume their normal activities comfortably.
“Getting dentures for the first time will result in large lifestyle changes.”
What to Look out for When Wearing Dentures
The most important thing to do is keep the mouth clean and healthy. If patients find that their dentures are rubbing and causing sore spots, they should immediately see us for assessment and relining of the dentures. All patients, even those with no natural teeth, should get regular dental checkups at least twice a year.
If someone wearing dentures finds that the dentures' fit has changed significantly, they should make an appointment with our office to find the root cause of the changes. Shrinkage of the gums and jawbone is common when no longer supporting teeth; however, swelling and inflammation could be from an underlying health condition.
“Every patient, even those with no natural teeth, should get regular dental checkups at least twice per year.”
How To Travel with Dentures
Traveling with dentures for the first time, especially overnight, can be nerve-racking. An effective way to cope with denture-related anxiety and have a successful trip is to prepare well ahead of time. In addition to having practiced the proper denture-care routine at home, the patient should:
- Research the destination’s water quality. If local water is questionable, patients can soak dentures in bottled water for the trip duration. An article from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends choosing bottled water that has been treated for Cryptosporidium when traveling.
- Choose an appropriate denture case. A tight-fitting case protects dentures from bumps along the way. This prevents cracks, which could harbor bacteria. Some travel cases for dentures include brushes and mirrors for convenience.
- Consider investing in a second set of dentures. Although not necessary for most people, a set of backup dentures may occasionally save the day. For example, if the denture-wearer is traveling for a meeting or speaking engagement, having a second set of dentures may provide peace of mind. The same goes for a patient on an extended trip.
“An effective way to cope with denture-related anxiety and have a successful trip is to prepare well ahead of time.”
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Precautions With Food
When wearing new dentures, it is a good idea to eat soft foods and take small bites. Chew slowly and try to use both sides of the mouth so the jaw muscles can get a firm hold. Alternatively, some people decide to use denture adhesive for extra stability. We recommend avoiding hard, hot, tough, or sticky foods to minimize potential teeth damage.
Hot foods can cause problems initially because the lower temperature sensitivity increases the risk of accidental burns. Once patients get used to the difference, they can start introducing hot foods to their diet again. Avoid foods like hard vegetables, seeds, and nuts that can damage dentures and refrain from chewing gum, peanut butter, and other sticky foods that make it more difficult to clean dentures.
“When wearing new dentures, it is a good idea to eat soft foods and take small bites.”
Questions Answered on This Page
Q. What should people expect when getting dentures?
Q. What food should denture wearers eat?
Q. What should people be wary of when wearing dentures?
Q. What is the best way to travel with dentures?
Q. Do dentures cause oropharyngeal cancer?
People Also Ask
Q. What is the proper way to take care of my dentures?
Q. Can I fix my dentures myself?
Q. How can I tell if my dentures need to be relined or rebased?
Q. What should I do if my dentures start to feel uncomfortable?
Q. How should new denture wearers change their eating practices?
Q. What lifestyle changes will people experience after getting dentures?
Checking for Oropharyngeal Cancer
While dentures will not cause oral cancer, a combination of poor fit and poor hygiene for an extended period can cause irritation, infection, and inflammation associated with oral cancer. As such, it is imperative for patients to take proper care of their teeth at all times.
Amir Sanjabi Dental can check for oropharyngeal cancer during a routine examination. The screening will begin with Amir Sanjabi Dental examining the oral tissues, carefully checking the gums, inside of the cheeks, and tongue. The roof and floor of the mouth will also be examined.
“While dentures will not cause oral cancer, a combination of poor fit and poor hygiene for an extended period can cause irritation, infection, and inflammation associated with oral cancer.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Is it easy to chew when wearing dentures?
A. Dentures restore part of a person's chewing capacity compared with having no teeth. However, a denture-wearer will not have the biting force of a person with a complete set of healthy, natural teeth. Chewing with dentures can be mastered with practice.
Q. How can I learn to speak clearly while wearing dentures?
A. Learning to speak clearly with dentures requires practice. It may take a few weeks, but it does get easier. For example, reading aloud is an effective way to practice. Speaking more slowly may also help a patient learn to enunciate while wearing dentures.
Q. What can I eat with dentures?
A. Foods that are not sticky or hard are usually preferred for denture-wearers. It is a good idea to avoid foods with small seeds or hard bits. Foods that have been cut into small pieces are easiest for a person with dentures to eat.
Q. How do I keep my dentures clean?
A. To keep a pair of dentures clean, brush them with a soft-bristled toothbrush at least once a day. It also helps to rinse them after eating. Soak them overnight in an appropriate solution to make sure they keep their shape.
Q. Where can I find more solutions for common denture problems?
A. The most reliable source of information about denture care and oral health is a dental professional such as Amir Sanjabi Dental. If a patient experiences a problem with dentures, it may be an indication that it is time to visit the dentist. Always bring up any concerns and issues during an appointment.
Denture Terminology
Call Us Today
Taking the right precautions and actions can combat common denture problems. Our team at Amir Sanjabi Dental can help. Call us at 562-399-9243 for more information or to schedule an appointment.
Helpful Related Links
- American Dental Association (ADA). Glossary of Dental Clinical Terms. 2024
- American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry® (AACD). Home Page. 2024
- WebMD. WebMD’s Oral Care Guide. 2024
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